The seeds of Clare Montavon’s love of nature are planted deep.
It’s no surprise to those who know her best that she is choosing to major in horticulture and landscape management, with a minor in business administration this fall as a junior transfer to Illinois State.
Growing up in a family that enjoys hiking and kayaking, she’s always enjoyed the outdoors. Her father owns a tree service business, which she’s worked for the past four years.
“I work for him each summer and I’ve gained a lot of skills,” said Montavon, of Davis Junction, IL. “It’s been really helpful for my internship because he’s always talked about trees with me, and I know how to identify them already.”
This summer, Montavon is working at Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Rockford as a plant records intern.
“I’m locating and identifying tree specimens throughout their 155 acres. I take note of anything that’s dead, not doing well, or has fallen down,” said Montavon. “I also collect GPS field data to assist with plant records and mapping, as well as assist in the management of the arboretum’s plant records system. It’s been really fun and I’ve tagged about 460 trees so far.”
She hopes to continue finding internships like the one at Klehm Arboretum to supplement her education at Illinois State.
The Rock Valley College transfer student discovered Illinois State was the place for her while visiting her cousin on campus.
“I visited her once and I absolutely fell in love with the campus,” said Montavon. “I loved the Quad and how everything was within walking distance. The whole vibe is amazing, and people were super friendly.”
During her time at Rock Valley College, Montavon participated in the Phi Theta Kappa and worked as a student employee in the testing center. She is excited to jump right in and explore the opportunities available to her at Illinois State.
“I can’t wait to get involved,” said Montavon. “I’m most excited for Horticulture Club.”
As the recipient of the Civic Engagement Scholarship, which recognizes freshmen and transfer students who are committed to civic engagement and community service, Montavon also hopes to continue volunteering on campus.
“I’ve been doing community service since middle school,” said Montavon. “It started when I was in 4-H and continued to grow when I was in high school, being involved in different clubs and organizations. I volunteer at Tails Humane Society with my mom and brother. I really enjoy giving back. It gives me a sense of purpose.”
Montavon also earned the Stephey Agriculture Scholarship through the Department of Agriculture.
In addition to getting involved and volunteering, Montavon will also be a member of the Honors Program.
“Not only will it be a chance to meet new people, but I’m looking forward to the in-depth learning opportunities that it will bring,” said Montavon.
After graduation, Montavon is considering pursuing a master’s in landscape architecture and owning a landscaping business someday.
“Once I get into my classes, I’ll get more specific with which direction I want to go,” said Montavon.
She’s looking forward to taking classes for her major, including landscape design, soil science, and plant identification.
“I’m definitely looking forward to making new friends, and I want to get out of my comfort zone a little bit and try some new things, just to get the full experience at Illinois State,” said Montavon.
Read about all of the students featured in our “Newest Redbirds” series at News.IllinoisState.edu.
